Improving Ultrasound for Brain Drug Delivery
Optimization of ultrasound-mediated drug delivery to the brain under clinically relevant conditions
This research aims to make it easier for important medicines to reach the brain for conditions like brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11135549 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The brain has a natural shield, called the blood-brain barrier, that stops most medicines from getting in, which is a big challenge for treating serious brain conditions. Scientists are exploring a method using ultrasound waves and tiny bubbles to temporarily open this barrier, allowing drugs to pass through. This project focuses on refining this ultrasound technique to make it safer and more effective, especially when dealing with the human skull and specific brain areas. Our goal is to create a clear path for this promising treatment to be successfully used in patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Future patients with brain tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, or other brain disorders requiring targeted drug delivery could potentially benefit from this improved method.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions do not involve the blood-brain barrier or require drug delivery to the brain would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could significantly improve how drugs are delivered to the brain, leading to more effective treatments for brain tumors and other neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies have shown promise, and clinical trials using similar ultrasound methods to open the blood-brain barrier have already begun.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdannold, Nathan J. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Mcdannold, Nathan J.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.